“Penang to build RM2.9b North Coast Paired Road by 2031, cutting Batu Ferringhi–Teluk Bahang travel time from 45 to 7 minutes and boosting connectivity.”
Penang, 10th September 2025, 01.58pm – The Penang state government has reaffirmed its commitment to the North Coast Paired Road (NCPR) project, a RM2.9 billion infrastructure initiative aimed at tackling chronic congestion along the island’s northern coastal route, particularly for residents and commuters in Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang.
State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the NCPR is part of the long-delayed Three Main Roads and Tunnel Project, first awarded in 2013. Construction is slated to begin in 2026 and targeted for completion by 2031.
Faster Travel Times for Penang’s Northern Corridor
The 10.61km project will comprise an 8.41km land route and a 2.2km coastal viaduct, linking Tanjung Bungah to Teluk Bahang. Once completed, the road is expected to cut travel time during peak hours from up to 45 minutes to just seven minutes.
“Every festive season and long holiday, Jalan Batu Ferringhi is overwhelmed by thousands of vehicles. This project will provide not only smoother traffic but also faster response times during emergencies, when ambulances, fire brigades and police are often caught in jams,” Zairil said in a statement.
Project Alignment and Construction Plans
The NCPR will begin from Jalan Tanjung Bungah, passing the Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque via a coastal alignment, before connecting inland near Shamrock, across Batu Ferringhi, and ending at Teluk Bahang.
Consortium Zenith Construction (CZC), the appointed contractor, is finalising the detailed design. An updated Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will follow, expected to take 18 months.
The project’s cost includes RM500 million allocated for land acquisition, with the state government preparing agreements through the State Economic Planning Unit (BPEN), State Legal Advisor’s Office and technical agencies. Acquisition of private lots is expected to take six to 12 months.
Long-Term Socio-Economic Benefits
Zairil stressed that the NCPR is more than just a road project, but a promise of balanced infrastructure and development.
“If Jalan Batu Ferringhi is blocked, residents and tourists have no alternative route. NCPR will not only improve connectivity but also unlock new socio-economic opportunities for the northern coastal communities,” he said.
He added that the state’s significant investment reflects Penang’s commitment to remain livable, competitive, and resilient for future generations.
